Aggregate Mapper - Research Scientist 2

Working Title: Aggregate Mapper

Job Class: Research Scientist 2

Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID : 98299

• Location : St. Paul

• Telework Eligible : Yes, up to 50%

• Full/Part Time : Full-Time

• Regular/Temporary : Limited

• Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers

• Date Posted : 11/13/2026

• Closing Date : 12/03/2026

• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Department of Natural Resources

• Division/Unit : Lands and Minerals

• Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift

• Days of Work : Monday - Friday

• Travel Required : Yes, occasional travel as needed for field work

• Salary Range: $32.97 - $48.60 / hourly; $68,841 - $101,476 / annually

• Classified Status : Unclassified

• Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees/MAPE

• End Date : 06/30/2028

• FLSA Status : Exempt - Professional

• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : No

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

The Division of Lands and Minerals is seeking to hire one (1) Full-Time Temporary Aggregate Mapper - Research Scientist 2 position located in St. Paul Minnesota. This position exists to conduct independent geologic research, field investigations, and GIS-based analyses to identify, characterize, and map Minnesota's construction aggregate resources in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 84.94. The incumbent develops scientifically defensible aggregate resource maps, inventories, and geospatial data sets that support local government planning, resource conservation, infrastructure development, and informed land use decisions.

Responsibilities include:

• Conduct project management planning to identify steps and intermediate deadlines that ensure timely completion of final products and delivery of aggregate resource maps, GIS data, and public outreach.

• Conduct geologic research that supports aggregate resource mapping. This research includes completing literature reviews on glacial geology, glaciology, glacial stratigraphy, geomorphology, paleoclimate, and sediment flow and transport to develop a comprehensive understanding of the region’s glacial history and the specific study area.

• Independently plan and conduct field investigations for approximately 6–10 weeks annually, consistent with the project management plan. Field investigations include collecting and documenting geologic observations; describing sediment characteristics, lithology, and stratigraphy in gravel pits and other exposures; coordinating and conducting drilling and sampling activities; and collecting sediment samples to support geologic mapping and aggregate resource evaluation.

• Independently conduct GIS-based geologic analysis and interpretation using field observations, aerial photography, LiDAR, topographic maps, soil data, County Well Index (CWI) records, and other relevant datasets to produce aggregate resource maps.

• Assist the Mineral Potential Manager, as required, in developing extended- and short-range plans to fulfill Aggregate Resource Mapping objectives.

• Actively participate in training courses and professional conferences to continue developing expertise in glacial geology, aggregate resource evaluation and classification, quaternary stratigraphy, GIS, safety, and geologic mapping so that the speed and accuracy of work will meet the expected standards required by the department’s mineral research programs.

This position is identified as an LCCMR unclassified position with an anticipated end date of June 30th, 2028.

This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis, which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, or closely related field.

• Three (3) years of professional experience as a geologist, with experience in identifying glaciated terrains, exploration of sand and gravel resources, and/or geomorphology.

• Current knowledge and relevant experience in glacial geologic mapping techniques that allows for the production of accurate and meaningful construction aggregate maps.

• Ability to conduct geologic evaluations in a professional manner that stands up to client scrutiny in terms of economic and technical analysis.

• Relevant education, advanced training and/or experience in glacial geology, geomorphology, geologic mapping, or very similar related topics.

• Experience with ArcView GIS software.

• Knowledge of and experience with the Public Land Survey system, ArcView GIS software, global positioning systems, and Microsoft Access and Excel software.

• Communication and writing skills sufficient to permit production of timely and understandable county-scale maps and databases for a public audience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, or closely related field.

• Licensed as a Professional Geoscientist with the State of Minnesota.

• Experience and knowledge in the development of glacial geology maps, sand and gravel resource evaluation and classification, bedrock crushed stone classification, and geological fieldwork.

• Experience and knowledge in the development of databases and GIS-based map production.

• Experience in the collection of geologic field observations used to create a database that permits clients to ask questions of the map and gather data for their own decision-making needs.

• Safety training certification card for the Mining Safety and Health Administration or Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

• Demonstrated ability to manage time and budget to achieve program goals, including excellent organizational and technical writing skills.

Additional Requirements

This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver’s License with a clear driving record. Per DNR Fleet Policy, only individuals 18 years of age or older with a valid driver’s license may operate equipment and vehicles on behalf of the Agency.

Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B status).

It is the policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:

• Conflict of Interest Review

• Criminal History Check

• Education Verification

• Employment Reference / Records Check

• License / Certification Verification

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.

Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email [email protected] . Please indicate what assistance is needed.